'Become leaders, dreamers, architects' of the future
July 29, 2019 at 12:37 p.m.
It has been a pleasure to take part in many Baccalaureate Masses and graduations celebrating a new beginning in the lives of graduates.
More than 1,400 graduating seniors garnered in excess of $100 million in scholarships and grants. Viewed from an academic lens, the results of vigorous studies and self-discipline were handsomely rewarded.
However, in Catholic schools, graduation is the pinnacle of a vast array of experiences. Catholic schools transmit the teachings of Jesus, the doctrines of the Catholic faith. They provide a blueprint or compass to direct life’s course.
As graduates recounted significant memories, it was apparent that Kairos retreats were transformative and impactful, providing a time for students to pause, to reflect. They recognized that their unique attributes and talents contribute positively to our world. They realized how much they are loved. They acknowledged their inner being and that they are beautiful creations of God.
In a Catholic school, the attainment of knowledge is coupled with good works. The many service hours provided by students at Notre Dame High School were catalogued with seniors generating over 16,000 service hours of a school total of 47,000 hours in the 2012 school year. This spirit of service is replicated among the students and graduates of Catholic schools throughout the Diocese of Trenton. Students in Catholic schools are called to live the teachings of Jesus… “Love one another as I have loved you.” They recognize the face of God in those whom they serve and assist.
Students were challenged to be the one percent in our society, to become the leaders, the dreamers, the architects of their future. The quote from Mathew 7:16 was referenced during a commencement exercise: “By their fruits you shall know them.” Through self-discipline, focus, and the recognition of the importance of serving and assisting others, the graduates displayed a confidence in accepting the responsibility to use their knowledge, their inner wisdom to impact the future. The pride was evident among administrators and faculty as they acknowledged the growth and the spirit of the students whom they have guided and formed.
May the graduates of the Class of 2012 continue to experience God’s choicest blessings. May they be gentle with themselves and work toward their potential. May disappointments be balanced with an inner peace knowing that God always provides. May joy and peace abound as they see the love of God reflected in those who are part of their unique journeys. God’s blessings, graduates of the Class of 2012!
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It has been a pleasure to take part in many Baccalaureate Masses and graduations celebrating a new beginning in the lives of graduates.
More than 1,400 graduating seniors garnered in excess of $100 million in scholarships and grants. Viewed from an academic lens, the results of vigorous studies and self-discipline were handsomely rewarded.
However, in Catholic schools, graduation is the pinnacle of a vast array of experiences. Catholic schools transmit the teachings of Jesus, the doctrines of the Catholic faith. They provide a blueprint or compass to direct life’s course.
As graduates recounted significant memories, it was apparent that Kairos retreats were transformative and impactful, providing a time for students to pause, to reflect. They recognized that their unique attributes and talents contribute positively to our world. They realized how much they are loved. They acknowledged their inner being and that they are beautiful creations of God.
In a Catholic school, the attainment of knowledge is coupled with good works. The many service hours provided by students at Notre Dame High School were catalogued with seniors generating over 16,000 service hours of a school total of 47,000 hours in the 2012 school year. This spirit of service is replicated among the students and graduates of Catholic schools throughout the Diocese of Trenton. Students in Catholic schools are called to live the teachings of Jesus… “Love one another as I have loved you.” They recognize the face of God in those whom they serve and assist.
Students were challenged to be the one percent in our society, to become the leaders, the dreamers, the architects of their future. The quote from Mathew 7:16 was referenced during a commencement exercise: “By their fruits you shall know them.” Through self-discipline, focus, and the recognition of the importance of serving and assisting others, the graduates displayed a confidence in accepting the responsibility to use their knowledge, their inner wisdom to impact the future. The pride was evident among administrators and faculty as they acknowledged the growth and the spirit of the students whom they have guided and formed.
May the graduates of the Class of 2012 continue to experience God’s choicest blessings. May they be gentle with themselves and work toward their potential. May disappointments be balanced with an inner peace knowing that God always provides. May joy and peace abound as they see the love of God reflected in those who are part of their unique journeys. God’s blessings, graduates of the Class of 2012!
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